White House

As I sit here, I can’t help but ask the question, “Just how did I find myself headed to Washington, DC to advise on public policy at the White House?” It’s been a whirlwind fall that all started with me applying for and being selected as a member of the newly formed IL Alliance for Sound AIDS Policy (IL ASAP), a group of statewide policy and advocacy leaders picked to increase community involvement in HIV/AIDS activities, and fight for fair policies for those living with and at risk for HIV and AIDS.

On November 12, 2009, IL ASAP was fortunate enough to take part in a National HIV/AIDS Strategy Focus Group.  Jeffery Crowley, Director of the White House Office of National Aids Policy and Senior Advisor of Disability Policy was the guest at the focus group and listened as community members spoke to issues that need to be addressed when forming the National HIV/AIDS Strategy.  I testified at the focus group meeting regarding the barriers facing transgender, women, and aging populations; I had a lot to say!

By David Munar Via LifeLube
On this seemingly ordinary sunny day in our nation’s capital, my partner and I strolled slowly down 16th Street, looking for pockets of shade and commenting on the majestic magnolia trees and fragrant lilacs.

Senior White House officials invited a small group of U.S. AIDS advocates, including AFC President/CEO Mark Ishaug and AFC Vice President David Ernesto Munar, to a meeting last week in Washington, DC.